MMA News: Fedor Emelianenko signs a multi-fight deal with Bellator

The Last Emperor takes on Matt Mitrione on February 18th.

Former legendary Pride Champion, Fedor Emelianenko will make his return to the Octagon, Feb 18

During the broadcast of Bellator 165, the promotion revealed that Fedor Emelianenko will return to MMA, after signing a multi-fight deal. The Russian giant who turned 40 earlier this year, will take on former NFL player and UFC fighter Matt Mitrione on February 18th, in the first of his multi-fight deal with the promotion.

Bellator President Scott Coker, claims the promotion is trying to build its reputation by signing a few legendary fighters in an attempt to shed light on the rest of the talented roster.

“I’m very happy to be back in America and to be back in San Jose," said Emelianenko, after signing the deal.

"I'm very happy to have a chance to continue our relationship with Scott Coker."

Emelianenko considered one of the greatest to have ever stepped foot into the Octagon, has beaten some of the biggest names in the sport of MMA including Mark Hunt, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira, Mark Coleman, Kevin Randleman, Mirko Filipovic and more.

In his most recent fight, the Last Emperor took on Fabio Maldonado as he survived a brutal first round beating to regain his momentum and beat the former UFC fighter via unanimous decision.

Scott Coker says he is delighted at the arrival of the Russian veteran, with Bellator having scheduled a couple of superb upcoming fights as Cheal Sonnen takes on Tito Ortiz, before Fedor Emelianenko and Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson, make their highly anticipated returns to the cage.